Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which students can be on the same team?

A: All team members must be from the same school. They must also all be in the same grade level, if possible. Students may be moved up to a higher grade level for only the team round if a school can not form a full team for that higher grade level; however, students can not move up for the individual round. Teams must have 4-6 students. Teams with fewer than 4 will be combined with incomplete teams from other schools.

Q: What is the format of the tests?

A: Please read our Rules page: https://www.harkermathinvitational.org/information/rules

Q: Can I use the problems from past HMI tests listed below in my classroom/book/etc?

A: Yes! Please cite us in the format ‘Harker Math Invitational [Year] - [Round] [Problem #]’. For example, ‘Harker Math Invitational 2025 - Individual #14’. Some of our past tests can be found here: https://www.harkermathinvitational.org/archive/past-problems

Q: Who can submit a registration for HMI?

A: Only the official coach of the school can submit a registration. If no teacher or school official is able to be the coach, a parent can be the coach. Since we only allow one registration per school, there may only be one official coach per school.

Q: Does the coach have to be present at the competition?

A: If the coach will not be attending the competition, you must notify us who the designated adult that will handle check-in and chaperoning for your teams is.

Q: Will food be provided?

A: We give out snacks after the Individual Round. This year, as a 25th year special, we will be providing lunch to all students and coaches.

Q: Are awards given out at HMI?

A: Yes! We give plaques to the top 5 individuals in each grade level, as well as trophies and medals to the top 3 teams in each grade level.

Q: Who can participate in HMI?

A: All students in grades 6-8 are allowed to participate in HMI. However, students who have qualified for the MATHCOUNTS State competition this year will not be considered for awards. We will place them in a "non-competing" team with other MATHCOUNTS States qualifiers.

Q: How many teams can participate from each school?

A: Due to space constraints, teams are not guaranteed a spot at the competition this year. Please apply for as many teams as you have, and after registration closes, we will notify you how many of your teams were accepted.

Q: Can I make substitutions after the deadline to submit rosters?

A: Yes! Please email us before the competition to make any substitutions.

Q: How do I pay the registration fee?

A: The coach should mail a check (payable to The Harker School) to:

Vandana Kadam

The Harker School

4525 Union Avenue

San Jose, CA 95124

You may also choose to drop off the check at that address instead of mailing it. If we do not receive the check in time, you will have to pay double the cost at check-in.

Q: Is it possible to pay the registration fee online?

A: No, we do not accept online payments for HMI. Please let us know if you are unable to mail a check.

Q: What should I do if I have any questions or concerns not addressed on this website?

A: Please email us at harkermathinv@gmail.com or fill out the form below.